Storyteller at Large — Applied Studies Fall 2026 Cohort

 

Position Summary: Are you creative, adaptable, and passionate about storytelling?

Since 1977, the University of Lethbridge Applied Studies Program has partnered with the Lethbridge Public Library to offer students a one-of-a-kind opportunity: developing the art of oral storytelling while making a real difference in the community.

As an oral storyteller, you'll travel throughout Lethbridge and surrounding area, bringing myths, legends, folktales, and fairytales to life for children in elementary schools (K-6), daycares, senior's centers, and to families at the library itself.

Through guided training, hands-on practice, and real-world storytelling experiences, you'll build valuable skills in areas such as communication, adaptability and public engagement- while inspiring a lifelong love of stories and libraries among audiences of all ages.

Join us and turn your passion for storytelling into an unforgettable experience that sparks imagination and builds community - one story at a time!

Salary/Honorarium: This position includes both paid hours - $17.00 hourly, as per C.U.P.E Local 70 (Library Employees) Collective Agreement (currently under review) for training and storytelling sessions as well as volunteer hours that will be counted toward Applied Studies course credit.

Key Responsibilities:

· Attend 4 interactive training workshops designed to support you in developing the art and techniques of oral storytelling.

· Research, select, and present age-appropriate stories designed to engage and entertain audiences of various ages.

· Inspire children, families, and seniors alike to explore books and storytelling by encouraging visits to the Lethbridge Public Library.

· Represent the University of Lethbridge and Lethbridge Public Library with professionalism and enthusiasm.

Hours and Commitment:

· Total Commitment: 120 hours over the course of the semester (~10 hours per week)

· Must be available two half days per week and some evenings and weekends during the fall semester.

· Paid Hours: Training sessions, storytelling performances, end-of-semester showcase planning and execution, end-of-semester debrief, and creation of a mini storytelling session video (for program archives).

· Volunteer Hours: Story research and preparation, travel time, and additional professional development activities (counted toward Applied Studies course credit).

Benefits:

· Professional Development: Build transferable skills in communication, public speaking, creativity and adaptability- valuable across careers and industries!

· Applied Learning: Gain hands-on experience through the University of Lethbridge Applied Studies Program, earning course credit while making a real impact!

· Community Impact: Inspire a love of storytelling, literacy, and library engagement among children, families, and seniors throughout the Lethbridge area.

· Networking: Connect with fellow students, educators, library staff, and community organizations in a meaningful and collaborative setting.

· French-Language Opportunity: Bilingual students have the chance to share stories with French Immersion audiences and expand their language and presentation skills.

Qualifications:

· Have at least second year standing (minimum 30.0 successful credit hours) and 2.0 GPA.

· Must register for Applied Studies course credit through the University of Lethbridge.

· Strong communication skills, passion for storytelling, and experience presenting to diverse audiences.

· Self-motivated, reliable, and able to work independently.

· French language storytelling opportunities available for students fluent in French (up to Grade 6 French Immersion audiences).

· Background in drama, education, children's literature, public speaking, or experience working with children is an asset.

· Students from all academic disciplines are encouraged to apply!

To Apply:

Submit the following to Chelsea Le Francois (WIL Program Instructor) at chelsea.lefrancois@uleth.ca:

· Resume

· Cover Letter

· Fall 2026 Class Schedule

Deadline: Sunday, September 13, 2026

Setting up your Applied Studies course:

For more information on Applied Studies course requirements and application procedures, please visit our website at: ulethbridge.ca/career-bridge/applied-studies. Contact the Applied Studies office to set up an appointment immediately after you secure a position to start the process of registering for an Applied Studies course. Contact the Applied Studies office if you have any questions or concerns: applied.studies@uleth.ca.

 


Contact:

Chelsea Le Francois | chelsea.lefrancois@uleth.ca | 403-382-7144